Is there ice skating at Edinburgh Christmas Market?

Yes, there is a major ice rink at Edinburgh's Christmas festivities, typically located on George Street, which is a central part of the city's winter celebrations, though sometimes near the main market areas in Princes Street Gardens too. It's a large, popular open-air rink with sessions for all ages, penguin skating aids, and festive food/drinks, requiring advance booking for timed slots.

What rides are at Edinburgh Christmas Market?

Edinburgh's Christmas Market features thrilling rides like the Big Wheel (LNER Ferris Wheel) and the Around the World Starflyer, offering skyline views, alongside traditional fairground attractions in the Festive Funfair in West Princes Street Gardens, including the Sizzler, Dodgems, and family rides like the Toy Carousel. Entry to the markets and gardens is free, with separate costs for rides, which can often be pre-booked online for convenience.
 

Which Christmas market has an ice rink?

With humble beginnings as an open-air Christmas market in Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland has since grown into an extravaganza with ice skating, shows, roller coaster rides, street food stalls, festive bars and live music.

Does Edinburgh have an ice rink?

Murrayfield Ice Rink is a 3,800-seat multi-purpose arena in Edinburgh, Scotland, adjacent to Murrayfield Stadium and situated between the Murrayfield, Roseburn and Saughtonhall neighbourhoods.

How much is ice skating in Edinburgh?

Murrayfield Ice Arena

Price: Admission £12, skate hire £4. Why go: A spacious indoor rink, great for families and groups regardless of weather. they also run disco sessions on a Friday and Saturday evening.

Edinburgh Christmas Market 2025 – First Look & Honest Review!

Does Edinburgh Christmas Market have ice skating?

George Street West & Castle Street

George Street will be home to the spectacular Edinburgh's Christmas Ice Rink, a vital part of any Christmas visit.

Do you have to book Edinburgh ice skating?

Tickets are restricted to a maximum of 6 tickets per transaction and 4 tickets per ice skating session. Advance online booking is required.

What should I wear for ice skating in Edinburgh?

If you're planning to visit the ice skating rink in downtown Edinburgh, here are a few tips to make your experience even better: 1. Dress warmly: Don't forget to bundle up. Wear warm clothing, gloves and a hat to keep cozy on the ice.

Does Edinburgh have winter Wonderland?

From Saturday 15th November 2025 to Sunday 4th January 2026, Edinburgh will transform into a fictional Christmas wonderland- just like the ones you've seen before, filled with iconic Christmas markets, festive events, and seasonal experiences perfect for families, couples, and solo travellers alike.

Is ice skating good for your joints?

Supports Joints & Bones

Ice skating's smooth motion is gentle on the joints, making it a great option for those dealing with arthritis or joint pain. Unlike high-impact activities, skating reduces the stress placed on your knees and hips.

Where to go for a snowy Christmas market?

The European Christmas markets most likely to see snow, according to Omio

• Rovaniemi, Finland.
• Helsinki, Finland.
• Turku, Finland.
• Krawkow, Poland.
• Innsbruck, Austria.
• Graz, Austria.
• Brno, Czech Republic.
• Salzburg, Austria.

How much is the Ferris wheel at the Edinburgh Christmas Market?

The helter skelter costs £4 a time - card payments only - and the carousel costs £6 a turn. Prices for a spin on the Big Wheel are £12 for and adult and £9.60 for concessions, while a family ticket - with a maximum of two adults - costs £38.40 - again card payments only.

Which is the best Christmas Market in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh's 5 Best Christmas Markets In 2026

• East Princes Street Christmas Market. Location: Princes Street, EH2 2HG. ...
• Edinburgh Farmer's Market. Location: Castle Terrace, EH1 2EN. ...
• Hopetoun House Christmas Shopping Fair. ...
• Summerhall Christmas Market. ...
• Jupiter Artland's Christmas Fair.

Where is the most Christmassy place in Scotland?

Edinburgh is widely considered Scotland's most Christmassy place, transforming into a magical winter wonderland with its famous Christmas Market in Princes Street Gardens, ice rink, giant wheel, festive lights on the Royal Mile, and numerous events. Other top contenders for festive cheer include the Cairngorms for its reindeer and snowy landscapes, Oban for its community-focused Winter Festival, and charming local streets like Lavender Drive in Newton Mearns known for spectacular lights.
 

What should I eat before ice skating?

Eat a carbohydrate-rich snack a half hour to an hour before practice. Carbohydrates fuel our muscles and our brains, which are both necessary before getting on the ice for practice.

Is it cold in Edinburgh in December?

The average temperature in Edinburgh in December for a typical day ranges from a high of 42°F (6°C) to a low of 35°F (2°C). Some would describe the temperature to be cold. The general area may also feel slightly windy.

What to bring first time ice skating?

Skates, helmet (I always recommend a cage to protect their little faces), mitts/gloves (not hockey gloves-can make it more difficult if they're playing a game where they need to pick something up. I'd do a warm jacket, and waterproof pants. I never recommend extra padding as it makes it harder to move.

Is ice skating fun for beginners?

Ice skating is wonderfully fun, no matter what age you start. Once you find your balance and start gliding, that shaky first stride turns into something amazing. In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know to get started—from what to wear and how to move to staying safe when you fall.

Do I need cash for the Edinburgh Christmas Market?

You can use both cash and card at the Edinburgh Christmas Market, but cards (especially contactless/phone payments) are widely accepted and often preferred, though it's wise to carry some cash for smaller stalls, emergencies, or patchy Wi-Fi/signal issues. Most major stalls and attractions take cards, but some smaller vendors might be cash-only or have minimum card spends.